“I will continue to make music” — Silento’s team releases the rapper’s statement following his prison sentence over his cousin’s murder

Rapper Richard Lamar "Ricky" Hawk, aka Silento, has been ordered to serve a 30-year prison sentence in connection with the murder of his cousin, Frederick Rooks. Reports mention that he admitted guilt to the crime during a court hearing on June 11, 2025.

Although Ricky pleaded guilty during the hearing, which took place at the DeKalb County Court, mental illness was a condition in the matter. Frederick Rooks lost his life in a fatal shooting that happened in 2021. Following the sentencing, Silento released a statement through his team, saying:

“I will continue to make music and work on becoming the best possible version of myself. I can't reverse time, but 1 can serve the time I've been given lawfully, and strive to positively contribute to whatever my new environment may be.”

He went on:

“I entered this industry as a teenager, often without proper guidance or direction. While that is not an excuse, it is part of my truth. I pray for growth, evolution, and the ability to find forgiveness for myself and for this entire situation. God bless y'all.”

In the statement, Silento’s crisis manager, Chanel Hudson-O'Connor, shared that she had personally spoken to the rapper, who expressed gratitude to everyone for their prayers, encouragement, and support during this period.

He wanted his family, fans, and supporters to know that he regretted the hurt and disappointment he had caused. Chanel Hudson-O'Connor added:

“This statement marks a step toward healing and much-needed closure for everyone affected. We kindly ask the public to continue praying for all parties involved-especially Ricky-as he continues to battle severe mental health challenges.”

Here’s what Silento’s representative said following his arrest in 2021

According to XXL Mag, Silento admitted to the charge of voluntary manslaughter, as a result of which the murder charge was dropped. Other changes include using firearms, assault, and other charges related to the 2021 shooting. The manslaughter charge entails a 20-year sentence, while the firearms and assault charges comprise 10 years in total.

Following Rooks’ murder and Ricky’s subsequent arrest, his publicist spoke to the media outlet, sharing a statement about the incident. The person said:

“I have been in contact with the family and their thing right now is just, they're asking the world to uplift their family in prayer. When you know a client suffers severely from mental health, when you've been around the client, when you have... Last year, Silento tried to commit suicide during the pandemic. No one cared about that story.”

In a previous statement through Instagram, the publicist asked the public to send him positive thoughts, explaining his struggles with mental health issues for several years. They said Silento continued with treatment and hoped people would keep him and his family in their prayers.

The publicist also mentioned that Ricky had a kind heart and hoped those who once danced to his music would continue to show support and keep him in their thoughts.

In 2020, Silento entered an unknown person’s house with a deadly tool, saying he was on the lookout for his partner. He was also taken into custody for speeding that year. The rapper is well-known for his work Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae), which came out in 2015.

Trending

Also Read: When was NBA YoungBoy sentenced in drug fraud case? Rapper allegedly got into prison fight with another inmate

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback